What is the meaning of 1 Chronicles 6:1?

The sons of Levi:

“The sons of Levi: Gershon, Kohath, and Merari.” (1 Chronicles 6:1)

• Levi’s line is singled out because God set this tribe apart for sacred service (Numbers 3:5-10; Deuteronomy 10:8).

• By starting the genealogy with Levi’s three sons, the text reminds us that every Levitical duty—whether carrying the tabernacle, singing praise, or offering sacrifices—flows from God’s original call on Levi’s household (Exodus 32:26-29).

• The verse establishes a framework: every future priest, singer, and gatekeeper traces back to one of these three brothers (1 Chronicles 6:31-48).

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Gershon:

• Gershon’s descendants handled the curtains, coverings, and hangings of the tabernacle (Numbers 4:22-26).

• Through figures like Asaph, the Gershonites became prominent in temple worship and music (1 Chronicles 6:39-43; 25:1-2).

• Their ministry shows how God values those who serve behind the scenes—without the Gershonites, Israel’s place of worship literally could not be assembled.

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Kohath:

• Kohath’s line is best known for Moses, Aaron, and the priesthood (Exodus 6:16-20).

• His descendants carried the most sacred objects—the ark, table, lampstand, and altars (Numbers 4:4-15).

• The Kohathites illustrate that proximity to God’s holiness demands strict obedience; touching the ark improperly cost lives (2 Samuel 6:6-7).

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Merari:

• Merari’s clan was responsible for the heaviest pieces: the frames, crossbars, posts, and bases of the tabernacle (Numbers 4:29-33).

• Their work required strength and faithfulness, reminding us that God assigns tasks suited to different gifts (Romans 12:4-6).

• Later, Merarites helped restore temple worship under Hezekiah and Josiah, showing long-term perseverance in service (2 Chronicles 29:12-15; 34:12-13).

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summary

1 Chronicles 6:1 is more than a family record; it anchors Israel’s worship in three divinely appointed branches of Levi’s house. Gershon, Kohath, and Merari each received distinct responsibilities, together forming a complete ministry team for God’s dwelling place. The verse calls us to recognize God’s sovereign ordering of service, esteem every role He assigns, and walk faithfully in the lineage of worship and obedience He establishes.